The great escape

There is a place in the city where people can escape the noise, anxiety and stress.

Known as Mingary, The Quiet Place, it is an oasis without the traffic, street-cleaning machines, building sites and trams rattling by.

We all work busy jobs that, although may be fulfilling, can build tension in our everyday lives. So we crave a deep need to soothe the constant demand and noise that has become common place in the CBD. We find ourselves looking for a quiet space amidst the busy hustle and bustle of the city.

As you stand on the corner of Collins and Russell streets facing St Michael’s church, you’ll see a sign inviting you to Mingary. Pronounced ming-gar-ree, it is a Gaelic term meaning “a quiet place”. And the first thing you notice as you step into it is the silence.

A non-denominational meditation space inspired by Dr Francis Macnab, Mingary has been a haven for Melburnians and visitors for more than 15 years.

The soft light and relaxing atmosphere features a unique rock and water sculpture created by Japanese sculptor Akira Takizawa. Designed as a space for reflection and inspiration, Mingary welcomes everyone who is searching for strength in silence.

The peaceful gardens outside Mingary carry the inner world of the meditation space to the outer world of people, traffic and noise – an oasis of green on a busy city street corner.

Mingary is open to the public free of change from 8am to 5pm weekdays and from 8am until 1pm on Sundays.

It’s on the Russell St side of St Michael’s, 120 Collins St. For more information visitwww.stmichaels.org.au/mingary